HRS Wales abides by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) code of approved practice for the regulation of contractual arrangements in field archaeology (2014).

This Code provides guidance to archaeologists about professional conduct in situations where sponsored or commissioned archaeological work is undertaken on a contractual basis, especially as part of development controlled by the planning process. It is based on the five principles enshrined in the Institute’s Code of conduct. These principles are:

1. The archaeologist shall adhere to the highest standards of ethical and responsible behaviour in the conduct of archaeological affairs.

2. The archaeologist has a responsibility for the conservation of the archaeological heritage.

3. The archaeologist shall conduct his/her work in such a way that reliable information about the past may be acquired, and shall ensure that the results be properly recorded.

4. The archaeologist has a responsibility for making available the results of archaeological work with reasonable dispatch.

5. The archaeologist shall recognise the aspirations of employees, colleagues and helpers with regard to all matters relating to employment, including career development, health and safety, terms and conditions of employment and equality of opportunity.